The 2024 New York World Spirits Competition has awarded 15 STARS Platinum Straight Bourbon the title of Best Small Batch Bourbon (Up to 10 Years). This exceptional bourbon captivated the judges with its rich, complex flavor profile and deep ties to Kentucky’s heritage.
Crafted by a father-and-son team, 15 STARS Platinum pays homage to Kentucky’s statehood as the 15th state to join the union. This bourbon reflects a meticulous blending process, with a mash bill and aging technique designed to showcase both tradition and innovation. The result is a bourbon boasting notes of caramel, honey, dried fruit, and subtle oak – a testament to the artistry of small-batch production.
As a runner-up, Rabbit Hole Heigold Kentucky Straight Bourbon also stood out for its unique high-rye mash bill and wood-fired, toasted barrel aging process. Crafted in Louisville, Kentucky, Heigold’s flavor profile, featuring butterscotch, toasted malt, and baking spices, earned praise for its balanced and modern approach to bourbon-making.
This year’s competition highlighted the excellence of these two bourbons, both of which exemplify the innovation and craftsmanship at the heart of American whiskey. Whether you’re drawn to the heritage and depth of 15 STARS or the bold character of Rabbit Hole Heigold, both are shining examples of why small-batch bourbon continues to lead in the spirits world.